Chrissie Bonner, a 59-year-old business owner from Little Haven, has raised £2,000 for Wales Air Ambulance by completing 12 cold-water swims during winter. The challenge was inspired by the charity's lifesaving intervention for her friend's daughter after a severe car crash.
A Chilly Challenge for a Vital Cause
Bonner, who runs a holiday cottage business, braved sea temperatures as low as 6°C off the Pembrokeshire coast. She was joined by family and friends who helped set up an online donation page. A local firm, Puffin Produce, doubled their contribution when her partner Pete also took a dip.
Bonner said: "Wales Air Ambulance is very dear to the people of Pembrokeshire. We live in such a rural area and there is so much to do outdoors. I love the water, so paddleboarding, fishing, boating, anything that I can do in the sea, I will."
Personal Motivation and Community Support
Explaining her motivation, Bonner said: "My dear friend Nicky's daughter was involved in a road traffic collision in a rural location several years ago. Her injuries were so severe, the Wales Air Ambulance came to her aid. Without this service, it could have been a very different outcome." She added: "There is no doubt the clinicians who attended her that day saved her life."
Bonner originally hoped to raise £500, but the generosity of supporters smashed that goal. She praised Kath and Mick for setting up the GoFundMe page and thanked everyone who donated. Her partner Pete, a former lifeboat crew member, collected donations from colleagues at Puffin Produce, who matched their support.
Fundraising Impact and Charity's Gratitude
Wales Air Ambulance relies on public donations to raise the £13 million needed annually to keep its helicopters and response cars running. Mike May, regional fundraising manager, said: "It is impressive that Chrissie took on twelve cold-water dips in the depths of Winter, to raise funds for our Charity. And that she managed to rope in family and friends too!"
May added: "£2,000 is an incredible amount, and we are very thankful to each person who donated. Every pound raised makes a lifesaving difference. Diolch yn fawr!" The charity provides hospital-standard treatment at the scene, including surgery, blood transfusions, and anaesthetics.
